2014 Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG is a high-performance SUV that boasts a hand-built 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 550 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT automatic transmission. While the GL63 AMG offers a luxurious interior, powerful performance, and distinctive styling, potential owners should be aware of common issues. Owners often praise its acceleration and handling for a large SUV, but some criticize its fuel economy and higher maintenance costs.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (M157)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or screeching noise from the engine bay, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Filter Housing)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket or component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle will not lift to the proper ride height, may see suspension fault light or message on the dashboard
  • Solution: The Air Suspension Compressor will need to be replaced, typically along with the relay
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed AMG Speedshift MCT Automatic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, transmission fault codes.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially under light acceleration; abnormal noise; transmission slipping
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, sagging suspension, rough ride, air leaking noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airmatic Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Suspension rising slowly or not at all, error messages on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replacement of the Airmatic Compressor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, needing frequent jump starts. Can be caused by a number of components, including the audio amplifier.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, glitches, navigation problems, and failure to connect to Bluetooth
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening/closing properly, making excessive noise, or getting stuck.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, rails, or associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG offers exceptional performance but is also susceptible to several common issues. The most significant problems relate to the engine (turbo failures, oil leaks), transmission (valve body), and suspension (air suspension components). These issues can be costly to repair, with some repairs exceeding $3,000. Electrical issues, such as battery drain and COMAND system problems, can also add to the ownership expenses. Prospective buyers should factor in these potential repair costs when considering purchasing this vehicle.